Rhodes sea cruises (6 hours pleasure cruise)

If you’re dreaming of seeing Rhodes from a fresh perspective, a sea cruise could be just what you need. This 6-hour pleasure cruise promises a relaxing way to enjoy the island’s famous coastlines and crystal-clear waters, all while unwinding on a spacious boat. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and what’s on offer to give you an honest picture of what to expect.

What really catches the eye are the stunning views—especially around Anthony Quinn Bay—and the inclusive lunch and wine, which make it a convenient, stress-free experience. Plus, the chance to swim and snorkel in some of Rhodes’ best spots means you’ll come away with memorable underwater moments. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some guests found the boat’s quality and amenities less than perfect, so this cruise might be more suited to relaxed, easygoing travelers rather than those seeking luxury.

This cruise is best suited for those who prioritize scenic sailing, good company, and an unhurried day on the water. If you’re after a peaceful escape with a splash of adventure, and you’re okay with a modest boat setup, you’ll likely enjoy what’s on offer here.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and panoramic views, including Anthony Quinn Bay, are a highlight.
• The all-in-one package covers lunch, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it very convenient.
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops allow you to cool off in Rhodes’ clear waters.
• The trip is mostly laid-back with music and relaxed vibes, ideal for unwinding.
• The boat’s quality and onboard amenities might not satisfy those seeking a luxury experience.
• A reasonable price point makes it accessible for many travelers.

What to Expect from the Rhodes Sea Cruises 6-Hour Pleasure Cruise

This cruise is designed to give you a taste of Rhodes’ best beaches and scenery, all from the comfort of a roomy boat. The itinerary is fairly straightforward but packed with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the sun. Here’s a deeper look at what you’ll encounter along the way.

Starting Point: Mandraki Marina

The adventure begins at Mandraki Marina, a central hub in Rhodes. The boat departs at 10:00 am, allowing you to kick off your day with a relaxed morning, knowing that you’ve set aside plenty of time for fun. The meeting point is near public transportation, which makes it easy to reach whether you’re staying downtown or nearby.

Anthony Quinn Bay: The First Stop

Your first destination is Anthony Quinn Bay—arguably Rhodes’ most photographed spot. The bay’s reputation for crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty makes it a perfect place for a swim or snorkel. You’ll spend about an hour here, giving you enough time to snap a few pictures, float in the water, or just relax on the boat with music playing in the background.

Guests often mention the great photo opportunities and the calming atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the boat stopped here for photos and swimming—such a gorgeous spot.” Keep in mind that this stop is also about capturing memories and taking advantage of the sea’s tranquility.

Kallithea Beach: A Scenic Second Stop

Next, the boat heads to Kallithea Beach, another lovely spot renowned for its beauty. You’ll have about an hour here to snorkel and swim, with snorkeling gear provided. This stop offers a different landscape—more sandy and with the chance to explore underwater life.

While some reviews praise the scenic views and the opportunity to relax, others hint that the stop might feel a little rushed depending on the day’s schedule. Still, the water here is clear, and it’s an excellent spot to cool off.

Afandou Beach: The Final Swim

The last stop is Afandou Beach, which adds a laid-back vibe to your cruise. You’ll have an hour here to enjoy the water, perhaps indulge in the included buffet lunch, or just lounge around. There’s a bar onboard for purchasing drinks, so whether you want a cold beer or soft drink, it’s an easy addition.

Guests have appreciated the inclusion of seasonal fruits and the laid-back atmosphere here. Expect more relaxed swimming and perhaps some music to wind down your day.

Included and Not Included: What’s on the Table

What makes this cruise appealing is the all-inclusive nature of the package. You get:

• Lunch, featuring Greek staples like moussaka, Greek salad, tzatziki, and pita—some guests found the food average, but it’s still a decent meal after a morning in the sun.
• Water and wine are included, which is great for hydration and enjoying a glass while taking in the views.
• Snorkeling equipment is provided, making it easier for you to explore underwater without extra hassle.
• The boat has a bar where you can buy additional soft drinks or beer if you’re craving something extra.
• Noodles for swimming help with buoyancy, especially if you want to float around or relax in the water.

However, keep in mind that transfer services are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The Realities: What You Should Know

While many aspects of this cruise are positive, there are some considerations. A couple of reviews highlight disappointing experiences such as poor onboard facilities and unwelcoming staff. For example, one guest mentioned, “Very bad toilet. Food was average. Welcome onboard was bad with no smiley face,” which might be a minor issue or a sign of inconsistent service.

Another reviewer pointed out the boat’s quality and comfort—cramped space, uncomfortable seats, and poor sun cover—so if you’re someone sensitive to boat conditions or seeking luxury, this might not be your ideal choice.

The duration of about 6 hours** is reasonable for a day of relaxing, but be aware that it’s a group experience with a maximum of 85 travelers. The size shouldn’t be overwhelming but could affect your level of privacy or intimacy during stops.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When weighing the value, the $49.13 per person fee offers a surprisingly rich experience if you’re after scenic views, swimming, and a relaxed day on the water. The fact that you get multiple stops, lunch, and drinks included makes it quite a practical way to enjoy Rhodes’ coast without much planning.

But, if you’re seeking a boat with top-notch amenities or luxurious comfort, you might be disappointed. The reviews suggest that the boat’s comfort level varies and may not be suited to those with high expectations for onboard facilities.

Who Might Enjoy This Cruise?

This cruise appeals most to travelers looking for a casual, scenic day, with ample opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax. It’s ideal for those who want a straightforward experience with a friendly, informal vibe rather than luxury. It’s also suitable for travelers who value a good price point and are happy to accept some limitations in boat quality.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a high-end experience, as some reviews mentioned cramped seats and basic facilities. If you’re traveling with children, the stops are kid-friendly, but keep in mind the boat’s comfort level and the length of the trip.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 23 days ahead on average, which is recommended given the popularity of the tour.

What is the meeting point?
The cruise departs from Mandraki Marina & Port at Plotarchou Plessa 2, Rhodes. It’s accessible via public transportation.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including stops and swimming.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll get a Greek-style lunch with options like moussaka, Greek salad, tzatziki, and pita.

Are drinks included?
Water and wine are included, and there’s a bar onboard for additional soft drinks or beer.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and the stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea Beach, and Afandou Beach are good for underwater exploration.

Are transfers included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the stops and swimming activities can suit children, but consider boat comfort and trip length.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes sea cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy some of the island’s most beautiful spots, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and unwind. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds convenience, and the panoramic views are a real draw. However, if you’re after a more luxurious or high-end experience, you might find the boat’s basic amenities and comfort a bit limiting.

For those who prioritize a laid-back day with good company and stunning scenery, this cruise can be quite rewarding. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling on a budget, enjoy casual atmospheres, and want to tick off multiple scenic stops in one day. Just be prepared for the possibility of some comfort trade-offs and that the experience is quite group-oriented.

Ultimately, it’s a way to see Rhodes differently—slowly, lazily, and surrounded by nature’s beauty. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s worth considering.